More

CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 10: Calvin Johnson #81 of the Detroit Lions catches a touchdown pass in front of Charles Tillman #33 of the Chicago Bears during the fourth quarter on November 10, 2013 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. The Detroit Lions defeated the Chicago Bears 21-19. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)

Charles Tillman and Calvin Johnson became quite familiar with one another through their many battles in the NFC North. The former Bears cornerback and former Lions wide receiver went head-to-head twice a year, every year, from 2007-2013.

Their rivalry bred mutual respect, a kinship that continues to this day.

Last week, Tillman voiced a video letter to Johnson, commending Megatron for being an earnest competitor, a humble star and for “(retiring) from football the same way you played it: on your own terms, knowing no one could stop you if they tried.”

Tillman, like Johnson, retired after the 2015 season.

Check out the video below:

On Tuesday, Johnson responded to Tillman’s letter with one of his own, posting the following note on Facebook and Instagram. Just as Tillman reflected fondly on his many battles with Johnson, Megatron said it “surely was a pleasure” to share the field with Tillman: